A high-profile Melbourne business figure has been found guilty of rape and sexual assault by a jury and immediately announced his intention to appeal the verdict. The conviction follows a three-week trial, culminating in the individual being taken into custody, facing the prospect of years in jail.

The jury delivered its unanimous decision today, finding the man guilty of two charges of rape and one charge of sexual assault stemming from an incident on March 23, 2023, at his home. The verdict ensures he will remain behind bars as he awaits sentencing, which is scheduled for a later date.

Defence Argues 'Gross Miscarriage of Justice'

Outside court, defence barrister Dermot Dann KC confirmed his client's instruction to appeal the jury's finding. During proceedings, Mr. Dann informed Judge Frank Gucciardo that the defence believes a "gross miscarriage of justice" has occurred. He also indicated the defence might make an unusual request to stay, or delay, the sentencing process while the appeal is pursued.

Legal proceedings are concurrently underway regarding the public identification of the convicted individual. While his name cannot currently be published due to ongoing court processes, concerns for his safety and mental well-being have been cited by medical professionals in submissions to the court. Defence lawyers are slated to return to the County Court to argue for the continuation of these restrictions, which also prevent the reporting of his professional connections.

Trial Centered on Credibility

The three-week trial meticulously examined the events of the evening in question. The prosecution presented a case alleging sexual assault occurred in the businessman's bedroom following an evening where he and the complainant had consumed alcohol and, it was suggested, illicit substances. The court heard allegations that the assault ceased only when the woman reportedly punched him in the face, after the accused allegedly uttered phrases such as, "You're so sexy" and "I can't stop."

The businessman vehemently denied the allegations, including claims that he had made numerous unwanted sexual advances towards the woman in the months leading up to the incident. With no direct witnesses to the alleged assault, both prosecution and defence counsel agreed the case ultimately hinged on the credibility of the complainant. The woman, who is several decades younger than the convicted man, spent multiple days in the witness box, providing her account of events.

Prosecutor Matthew Fisher maintained the woman was a credible witness whose story remained consistent throughout the legal process. Conversely, defence barrister Dermot Dann KC described the woman's version of events as "fiction."

Jurors had initially sought clarification from the judge earlier in the week about the process should they be unable to reach a verdict. After receiving instructions to continue deliberations, the panel of 12 returned today to deliver their unanimous decision. In a brief, dramatic moment, the jury foreperson initially misspoke before confirming the guilty verdicts on all charges.

This conviction is expected to have significant repercussions for the businessman's enterprises and could send shockwaves through the high-profile circles with which he is connected.